The production cycle of blood and transfusion: what the clinician should know

Abstract

Since the history of mankind, blood has been associated with the concept of life. However, improper use of blood and blood products increases the risk of transfusion-related complications and adverse events to recipients. It also contributes to the shortage of blood products and possibility of unavailability to patients in real need. Objective: this study aims to describe the history of blood transfusion and correct way of using hemotherapy, aiming to clarify to medical students and residents, as well as interested doctors, the importance of this knowledge when prescribing a hemo-component. Methodology: the topics described correspond to the summary of knowledge taught during the training courses offered by the Hemominas Foundation for medical students and residents. Conclusion: the doctor’s performance is undeniably linked to the scientific conception of his fundamentals gradually and continuously obtained since the beginning of medical training. In this perspective, a better training of medical professionals and development of educational curricula in accordance with the most recent advances in hematology can improve the medical knowledge related to transfusion medicine.